What'd I Say: The Atlantic Story

Stewart, Tabori & Chang / Welcome Rain Publishers

Publishers description:

The incredible, personal story of one of music's greatest figures. Revered among artists and industry leaders alike, Ahmet Ertegun has consistently recognized and developed an astonishing range of talent in the course of six decades, earning him the nickname "The Music Man." Having graciously inspired so many executives (David Geffen, Chris Blackwell, Seymour Stein) and artists over the years, Ahmet remains at the top of his game--currently producing several records and still working with new artists.

In [What'd I Say] ... Ahmet Ertegun, founder (in 1947) and Chairman/CEO of Atlantic Records, recounts the musical journey he began in the 30's and continues today. Ahmet's story is augmented by reminiscences and contributions from hundreds of the artists, producers and musical architects with whom he has worked.

The Atlantic story unfolds chronologically through stunning photography: the book includes 900 rarely seen photographs by William Gottlieb, Jean-Pierre Leloir, Bob Gruen, William Claxton, David Gahr, Lynn Goldsmith, Neal Preston, Patrick McBride and many more.

“What'd I Say" is punctuated by nine specially-commissioned essays from renowned authors/music journalists Greil Marcus, Nat Hentoff, Lenny Kaye, Robert Gordon, Robert Christgau, Vince Aletti, David Fricke, Will Friedwald and Barney Hoskyns. These writings are placed throughout the book and help define the different themes, musical styles and genres from Atlantic's inception to the present day.